Slay - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Slay means to kill violently or impress greatly. In modern slang, it often refers to excelling at something stylishly, like She slayed her performance. The meaning depends on context.
Definition:
To kill violently or in great numbers; also, to impress greatly or perform exceptionally well.
Synonyms:
kill, murder, slaughter, destroy, excel
Part of Speech:
verb
Antonyms:
spare, save, fail
Common Collocations:
slay a dragon, slay the competition, slay at a performance
Derivatives:
slayer, slaying, slain
Usage Tips:
Use "slay" literally for killing or figuratively for outstanding success; context determines meaning.
Common Phrases:
slay the dragon, slay in heels, slay all day
Etymology:
From Old English "slēan," meaning to strike or kill; evolved to include figurative excellence in modern slang.
Examples:
- 1. The knight vowed to slay the dragon terrorizing the village.
- 2. She totally slayed her presentation at work today!
- 3. Hunters once sought to slay wolves for bounty.
- 4. The comedian’s jokes made the audience laugh—he absolutely slayed!